The Diplomat
The Spanish contingent deployed in Mali in the framework of the EU mission (EUTM) is reinforcing the security of the training center of Koulikoro (south) in response to the latest terrorist attacks perpetrated by Al Qaeda in this region.
As reported yesterday by the EUTM, Spanish sappers are carrying out fortification work to improve protection and security, in coordination with the Malian military authorities, following the terrorist attacks of January 2 and 8, in which at least a dozen people were killed. The attacks have been claimed by the Al Qaeda affiliate, the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (JNIM), which has intensified its actions in the Sahel region and in southern Mali.
Spain has 316 troops in Mali, most of them in Koulikoro and the rest in the headquarters in the capital, Bamako. Koulikoro is home to the training center for Malian security forces, but the mission is currently suspended and the Spaniards are limited to non-operational activities and advisory and support tasks.
